The Career Doctor's Cures & Remedies:
"What kinds of jobs are there out there for teens -- and how can I find one?"

by Randall S. Hansen, Ph.D.

This article is part of a series from The Career Doctor's Cures & Remedies to Quintessentially Perplexing Career and Job-Hunting Ailments. Read more.

Well, first we need to separate the teens. Younger teens are not allowed to hold jobs because of state employment laws, while older teens can -- and should (if possible) gain work experience.

But before I send the younger teens away, let me stress the value and importance of working -- whether it's running your own yard-care business, delivering newspapers, or working at the local Wal-Mart, teens gain invaluable life lessons from working… just be certain that you don't go overboard with the number of hours you work, especially during the school year. School and family obligations should always come first, but if there is still time left, consider that part-time job.

Okay… For younger teens who want to work and earn money, read this article: Job Ideas for Teens 15 and Younger: Beyond Babysitting and Lemonade Stands.

For all other teens, here's my advice. All sorts of part-time job opportunities are available for teens, from waitressing and lifeguarding to working in a professional office. How can you go about finding a part-time job? Follow these guidelines:

1. Talk to your family and family friends and neighbors. Just as with all other job-seekers, networking will help you find more and better opportunities than just going to the mall and walking store-to-store.
2. Learn the basics of completing job applications. These forms can be a bit tricky at times to complete. And if you really want to wow potential employers, develop a resume.
3. Dress appropriately when job-hunting. Put away those short skirts and thrift-shop duds, take the jewelry out of most of your visible piercings, and cover those tattoos. Most businesses are conservative - and want job-seekers to match.
4. Be prepared to pound the pavement. Depending on the job market and competition from other job-seekers, you may have to work a lot harder to find a good part-time job.
5. Set daily and weekly goals. If you are serious about finding a part-time job, set a goal of visiting so many stores, completing so many applications, etc.
6. Follow-up is critical. Don't just submit the job application and expect the employer to frantically try to reach you. Follow up with each employer by personally stopping in (especially for stores), calling, or emailing.

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